Port of Call Quebec City, Quebec

Chateau Frontenac and Queen Mary 2, Quebec City. Cruise ships dock at Pointe-à-Carcy by quay 22 next to the modern Ross Goudreault cruise terminal or quay 30 with a temporary terminal. Vieux Quebec (or old Quebec) is adjacent to the cruise port.

Place-Royale In the 18th century Place-Royale was at the center of New France’s thriving commercial community. The square served as a marketplace, but had a second purpose holding public executions and floggings. Facing onto the square stand the historic Notres Dammes des Victoires church built in 1688, and the Fornel house built in 1723. Place-Royale is at the heart of Basse-Ville (Lower Town), a short walk from the cruise port.

Maison Chevalier Maison Chevalier (Chevalier House) is an historic house and museum giving fascinating insights into Quebec’s rich history. The house was originally built by the French ship owner and merchant Jean-Baptiste Chevalier in 1752. View the carefully restored rooms complete with wood beams, stone fireplaces and period furniture. Maison Chevalier is located down Rue du Cul-de-Sac from Place Royale. Not open on Mondays.

Funiculaire The easiest way to reach Haute-Ville (Upper Town) from Basse-Ville (Lower Town) is via the convenient Funiculaire railway. The lower station of the railway, the Maison Louis Jolliet was home in the 17th century to the explorer Jacques Marquettes. The upper station deposits you on famous Terrasse Dufferin in front of the iconic Château Frontenac. The more energetic can alternatively make the ascent by L'Éscalier du Casse-Cou (Stairs of the Broken Neck).

Terrasse Dufferin Stroll along Terrasse Dufferin to enjoy magnificent views across the old city and the wide St Lawrence seaway. Next to the Terrasse stands the splendid Château Frontenac (now a hotel) – pop in for a classy cup of coffee. You can continue from the Terrasse to the Promenade des Gouverneurs, which climbs up a set of steps alongside Quebec's military Citadelle.

Musée des Ursulines The Musée des Ursulines (Ursulines Museum) presents the history of the Ursuline nuns in Quebec, who arrived in New France in 1639. Find out about the life of the nuns who worked to spread their religious beliefs, and to provide education for girls. The museum is a short distance from Terrasse Dufferin.